Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa on Thursday, sworn in 6 newly appointed judges of the State High Court.
The new Judges are ; Justice Williams Daomi, Justice Adeola Adegoroye, Justice Justinah Kpemi, Justice Happiness Demehin-Ogunbayo, Justice Wumi Fabuluje, Justice Idowu Ogunwumiju.
Speaking at the event, held at Cocoa conference hall, Alagbaka, Akure, the Governor noted that the appointment of the noble personalities marks a significant improvement in the composition of the judges on the Bench of Ondo State Judiciary.
The Governor said "This is particularly fulfilling for me, as it marks the second instance on record in our administration that appointment to the Bench of the State Judiciary would be carried out and in large number," he said, recalling the first swearing-in in May 2019. He expressed hope that the good people of the state would continue to support his administration in its efforts to improve the judiciary.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also acknowledged the efforts of the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Hon. Justice Segun Aiyedun Odusola, for his leadership in ensuring a significant increase in the number of judges, thereby reducing the workload of the courts. He thanked the National Judicial Council and the newly appointed Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, GCON, for their role in facilitating the appointments.
Highlighting the backgrounds of the newly appointed judges, Aiyedatiwa noted the remarkable careers and expertise each brings to the bench. He commended their diligence, knowledge of the law, and commitment to justice, emphasizing that their appointments were a product of rigorous and thorough processes to ensure only the most qualified individuals are entrusted with the dispensation of justice in the state.
The governor also took the opportunity to address the recent Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy and its implications for Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Ondo State. He reassured the public that the state government had promptly appealed the judgment and is committed to following due legal processes.
He reiterated his administration's dedication to upholding the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary, encouraging the new judges to carry out their duties with "diligence, sobriety, courage, and the fear of God."
Earlier in his address, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ondo State, Barr. Olukayode Ajulo noted that the governor holds the judiciary and the rule of law in high regard.
He added that the Governor, Through his policies and actions has reaffirmed his commitment to providing the necessary resources for the effective administration of Justice.
Ajulo acknowledged the invaluable cooperation between the Judiciary, the legal profession, and the Executive, and legislators which has significantly enhanced the efficacy of the justice system in Ondo State.
He stressed that the since assumption of office of Governor Aiyedatiwa, the Executive and Judicial Branches have collaborated harmoniously as progressive partners in the pursuit of justice delivery within our state.
Speaking on behalf of other judges, Justice Williams Daomi promised that they would live up to the high idea and shall be good ambassadors. He assured that they shall compliment the good works other judges have been doing. He also assured the people of Ondo State that they shall perform their duties diligently.
In attendance were, The State Chairman of APC, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, represented by Hon. Rotimi Abitogun, Member representing Akure South Constituency 1, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, traditional rulers from and outside the State, Members of the State Executive Council, among other distinguished personalities.
